from εὖ and φρήν; to put (middle voice or passively, be) in a good frame of mind, i.e. rejoice:--fare, make glad, be (make) merry, rejoice.
Transliteration:euphraínō
Pronunciation:yoo-frah'-ee-no
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb εὐφραίνω (euphraínō, `{{G2165}}`) is derived from the Greek preposition εὖ (eu), meaning "good" or "well," and the noun φρήν (phrēn), which refers to the mind, understanding, or the diaphragm as the seat of emotions. Thus, the etymological root conveys the sense of being "in a good frame of mind" or having "good thoughts/feelings."
Semantically, εὐφραίνω denotes a state of inner gladness, cheerfulness, or merriment. Its core meaning is "to cause to rejoice" or, more commonly in the middle or passive voice, "to be joyful," "to be glad," "to make merry," or "to celebrate." It implies an internal disposition of well-being and contentment that often manifests in outward expressions of joy, such as feasting or celebration. Unlike some other words for joy, εὐφραίνω frequently carries connotations of enjoyment, revelry, or festive celebration, though its application extends to profound spiritual joy as well.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word εὐφραίνω appears approximately 14 times in the New Testament, offering diverse contextual insights into its usage:
In the Synoptic Gospels, particularly Luke, the term often appears in parables related to feasting and celebration. In the Parable of the Rich Fool, the man declares, "Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry" ([[Luke 12:19]]). Here, εὐφραίνω signifies a worldly, self-indulgent, and ultimately fleeting form of happiness. In stark contrast, the Parable of the Prodigal Son uses εὐφραίνω to describe the father's profound joy and the resulting celebration upon his son's return: "let us eat and be merry" ([[Luke 15:23]], [[Luke 15:24]], [[Luke 15:32]]). This context elevates the meaning to a joy rooted in repentance, restoration, and reconciliation, a joy that is shared and celebrated communally.
In the book of Acts, Peter, quoting Psalm 16:9, proclaims concerning Christ, "Therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; my flesh also will dwell in hope" ([[Acts 2:26]]). Here, εὐφραίνω describes the gladness of heart, a deep, internal joy rooted in divine hope and the resurrection. This usage connects the term to a spiritual state of confidence and trust in God's promises.
Paul uses εὐφραίνω in Romans to encourage unity and shared joy among believers: "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people" ([[Romans 15:10]], quoting Deuteronomy 32:43). This highlights a corporate, inclusive joy in God's salvation that transcends ethnic boundaries. In Galatians, Paul quotes Isaiah 54:1, "Rejoice, O barren one who does not bear" ([[Galatians 4:27]]). This prophetic use speaks of the joy of God's redemptive work, bringing forth spiritual children from unexpected places, signifying a joy rooted in God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Finally, in Revelation, εὐφραίνω describes the rejoicing of heaven and the saints over the divine judgment upon Babylon: "Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you saints and apostles and prophets, for God has given judgment for you against her!" ([[Revelation 18:20]]). This context portrays a righteous, eschatological joy in the vindication of God's justice and the ultimate triumph of His kingdom.
### Related Words & Concepts
εὐφραίνω shares semantic space with several other Greek words for joy and gladness, each with its own nuance:
* **χαίρω (chairō, `{{G5463}}`):** A more general term for "to rejoice" or "to be glad." While εὐφραίνω often implies a more demonstrative or festive joy, χαίρω can be used for any form of gladness, including a simple greeting ("Greetings!").
* **ἀγαλλιάω (agalliaō, `{{G21}}`):** Signifies a more intense, exuberant, or exultant joy, often involving outward expression like leaping or shouting. It conveys a sense of overwhelming delight.
* **χαρά (chara, `{{G5479}}`):** The noun form of χαίρω, referring to the state of joy or gladness itself.
Concepts closely associated with εὐφραίνω include:
* **Celebration and Feasting:** As seen in the Prodigal Son parable and the Rich Fool.
* **Inner Contentment:** The idea of being in a "good frame of mind."
* **Divine Favor and Blessing:** The joy often arises from God's redemptive acts or promises.
* **Eschatological Hope:** The rejoicing over future divine vindication.
Antonymously, εὐφραίνω stands in contrast to words denoting sorrow, grief, or mourning, such as λυπέω (lypeō, `{{G3076}}`, "to grieve") or πενθέω (pentheō, `{{G3996}}`, "to mourn").
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of εὐφραίνω lies in its portrayal of joy within various spiritual and human contexts. It highlights that joy, while a natural human emotion, takes on profound meaning when viewed through a divine lens.
Firstly, εὐφραίνω underscores the *source* of true joy. While worldly "merriment" is fleeting and self-centered ([[Luke 12:19]]), godly joy is rooted in God's character, His redemptive acts, and His promises. The father's joy over the prodigal son ([[Luke 15:23]], [[Luke 15:32]]) exemplifies divine joy over repentance and restoration, reflecting God's own heart for the lost. This joy is not merely an emotion but a theological reality that celebrates reconciliation and new life.
Secondly, the term points to joy as an appropriate response to God's work. Whether it is the gladness of heart experienced in hope ([[Acts 2:26]]), the corporate rejoicing of Gentiles joining God's people ([[Romans 15:10]]), or the prophetic joy in God's fulfillment of seemingly impossible promises ([[Galatians 4:27]]), εὐφραίνω often describes a celebratory response to divine initiative and faithfulness.
Finally, εὐφραίνω also encompasses an eschatological dimension of joy. The rejoicing in Revelation over the fall of Babylon ([[Revelation 18:20]]) is a profound expression of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's kingdom. This future joy is a promise for the redeemed, a celebration of God's sovereignty and the vindication of His people. The word thus helps to differentiate between superficial worldly pleasure and the deep, enduring, and often communal joy that stems from a right relationship with God and participation in His redemptive plan.
### Summary
εὐφραίνω (euphraínō, `{{G2165}}`) signifies "to be in a good frame of mind," leading to joy, gladness, or merriment. Derived from "good" and "mind/feelings," it often implies a celebratory or festive joy. In the New Testament, its usage ranges from worldly, fleeting revelry ([[Luke 12:19]]) to profound spiritual joy rooted in repentance and divine reconciliation ([[Luke 15:23]], [[Luke 15:32]]). It describes the gladness of heart in hope ([[Acts 2:26]]), the corporate joy of salvation ([[Romans 15:10]]), the prophetic joy in God's faithfulness ([[Galatians 4:27]]), and the righteous rejoicing over divine judgment ([[Revelation 18:20]]). Thus, εὐφραίνω highlights the internal disposition of cheerfulness, often expressed in celebration, and underscores that true, lasting joy originates from God's redemptive work and faithfulness.
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